Mr Arif Nizami, in his article The endgame is nigh has touched the core issues confronting this nation; the army and the government. The OBL operation conducted by US without taking into confidence army, ISI and the government has been a big setback for Pakistan and demoralising for the nation. It served dual purpose. Firstly, Pakistan was humiliated before the entire world; secondly, the US is using it to putt pressure on Pakistan to carry out a military operation in North Waziristan which Pakistan army has been resisting. US considers NW as safe haven for the militants.
Writer has rightly suggested Pakistan to play its cards carefully while keeping its own interests supreme. The US has to be told categorically that its policies have further distanced Pakistan and Afghanistan. If we want to put up a brave face, our mainstream parties, the PML(N) and PPP, must bring an end to their hostilities. I agree with the writer this is no time for the PML(N) to keep criticising the army. This will isolate them from mainstream politics as the nation still loves their armed forces. The PML(N) should come out of 1999 euphoria and face the ground realities. Their prolonged confrontation with the army and PPP shall do more harm than good to them and the country. Politicians must understand that politics is not a hobby or pastime. Politics is the base of national existence and survival.
LT COL (RETD) MUKHTAR A BUTT
Karachi